Tom Conlon was one of two Peterborough United lads drafted in by Graham Westley during the early weeks of the 2014-5 campaign. With GW’s squad taking shape, the move – at first – was a loan one from Posh. The midfielder did enough in that time, however, to impress at the Lamex. In January 2015, the move went from temporary to permanent. And, with it, came a chance to show that he was ready for regular League football. The frustration was that, while his promise was for all to see, it didn’t quite translate with the opportunities afforded to him.
Conlon became more accustomed to making appearances from the bench. That he did under more than one gaffer too; GW moving on, replaced by Teddy Sheringham and then Darren Sarll. Ultimately, the decision came to let the player find his feet out on loan and, during the 2017-8 campaign, he wound up at Billericay Town in search of first team action. That didn’t go according to plan, however. His loan deal there came to an end after a single game. And any hopes of breaking into the Boro’ first team were repeatedly hindered by injuries while here.
Tom Conlon: Before Boro’
After spending nine years as part of Stoke City‘s youth setup, the midfielder moved on to another local club: Newcastle Town. His stay there wasn’t a long one, though. The scouts from Posh caught sight of him; bringing to London Road on completion of a short trial with the club. Conlon’s pro debut came in a 2-0 win over Exeter City in an FA Cup Round One tie in November 2013. A professional contract soon followed – but his outings in the first team could be counted on one hand for the rest of the 2013-4 campaign.
Tom Conlon: After Boro’
Conlon’s time here was brought to an end in summer 2018 by yet another manager – Dino Maamria. The good news for the player was that he wasn’t kept waiting for a new club. Indeed, he secured a new employer close to where it all began in the Potteries; signing for Port Vale. At Vale Park, the midfielder would enjoy a five-and-a-half year stay – although one again punctured by injuries. Even so, he had some notable times with the club in Leagues One and Two. It’d be a chapter of his career that would end in early 2024, however; signing for National League side Oldham Athletic.